About us
Leadership experience, put to work for families.
Means To Thrive Counseling Services brings together qualified social work staff, experienced leadership and professional partnerships to support individuals and families with care and respect.
Our story
Founded by Kristen Means, MSW, our work grows out of more than 26 years spent leading services in child welfare, behavioral health, crisis intervention and community programs. Means To Thrive is where that experience meets individuals and families directly — emphasizing compassionate support, thoughtful guidance, family well-being and connections to appropriate services.
Our mission
To support individuals and families through compassionate, informed and collaborative services that encourage personal growth, strengthen family relationships and connect people with resources that support lasting well-being.
Our approach
Effective support begins with listening. We take time to understand each person's situation before suggesting anything. Depending on your needs and the service requested, support may involve counseling, education, referrals, resource coordination or other appropriate help.
Our qualified team
Social work knowledge. Shared commitment.
Led by Kristen Means, MSW, Founder & CEO, our team brings together qualified staff with Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW), Master of Social Work (MSW), and Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) qualifications.
Our professionals contribute to individual and family support, trauma-informed services and resource coordination within their respective qualifications and professional scopes of practice.
Social work education
BSW, MSW and LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) credentials inform our understanding of individuals, families and the systems that affect their lives.
Trauma-informed services
Our qualified staff recognize the impact of trauma and prioritize safety, trust, respect and individualized support so people feel heard, valued and empowered.
Coordinated support
Staff and qualified external providers contribute distinct expertise, working collaboratively around the needs and goals of each individual or family.
Our values
What guides every conversation.
Compassion
Approach each person with empathy, dignity and respect.
Integrity
Communicate honestly and maintain professional standards.
Collaboration
Work constructively with clients, families and appropriate community partners.
Empowerment
Help individuals recognize their strengths and participate in decisions about their goals.
Accountability
Approach services with professionalism and responsible follow-through.
Family-centered care
Recognize the importance of family relationships, support systems and individual circumstances.
Continuous improvement
Encourage thoughtful evaluation of services and opportunities to improve.
Professional partnerships
Connected expertise. Thoughtful collaboration.
We collaborate with qualified providers and community organizations to help coordinate support around the unique needs of individuals and families.
Psychological & specialized services
Means To Thrive has qualified staff, including professionals with Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) backgrounds and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), who are equipped to provide professional, trauma-informed therapeutic services tailored to the needs of individuals and families.
Our team is committed to compassionate, person-centered, trauma-informed care that recognizes each individual’s unique experiences, strengths and needs. We work collaboratively to help individuals and families access appropriate resources, develop coping skills and build a stronger foundation for their future.
Our staff provide the services for which they hold the appropriate training and credentials. When additional specialized care is needed, we collaborate with trusted external partners who provide psychological services, assessments and other specialized care, and we help connect individuals and families with the right providers.
Community resources & continuity
Our team helps clarify needs, identify resources and coordinate next steps with appropriate providers. Partner availability, eligibility and service arrangements are confirmed with the provider.
Take the next step
Your next chapter can start with a conversation.
Talk with our team about your needs, available services and appropriate professional support.